Brave rapped for covertly selling user data for AI training

Occurred: July 2023

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Privacy-focused web browser Brave appeared to sell data about its users without their knowledge or permission to third-parties developing AI systems, leading to accusations of hypocrisy and ethical misconduct.Β 

The allegations were first highlighted by Alex Ivanovs of Stack Diary, who claimed that Brave's Search API allowed access to copyrighted content without proper licensing for AI training purposes.Β 

Critics argue that this practice undermines Brave's stated commitment to user privacy and raises questions about the legality of using such data without explicit permission from users or content creators.

Search Engine Journal noted, 'The brewing controversy highlights tensions around using personal data to advance AI capabilities versus respecting data privacy and ownership rights. It underscores the need for clear communication and user consent regarding sharing their information.'

Operator: Brave Software
Developer: Brave Software
Country: USA
Sector: Multiple
Purpose: Share search results
Technology: Machine learning
Issue: Copyright; Privacy; Transparency

Page info
Type: Incident
Published: August 2023
Last updated: November 2023